Mental Health Awareness Week: A Conversation with Filmmaker and Storyteller Joy Brett

ADHD, Perimenopause & Burlesque: with Political Comedy Drag Queen Lilly SnatchDragon

CONTENT WARNING This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing. Please read below to make an informed decision on whether this episode is for you. If not, please take gentle care of yourself and I look forward to re-connecting with you next week.Specific subjects discussed include: racism, transphobia, neurodivergence, peri-menopause, mental health, and anxiety. It also includes some expletive language. If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links... UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/ Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help ABOUT THIS EPISODE In this engaging conversation, Tigz Rice connects with Lily SnatchDragon, an award-winning drag queen and burlesque artist, to explore themes of identity, representation, and self-acceptance. The conversation highlights the transformative power of performance and the need for diverse representation in the industry. In this engaging conversation, Lilly SnatchDragon and Tigz Rice explore performance art, personal empowerment, and the challenges of navigating perimenopause. Lilly shares her journey in the burlesque scene, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and using art as a platform for political statements. They discuss the emotional complexities of performance, the impact of perimenopause on creativity, and the necessity of creating spaces for diverse voices in the industry. The conversation is both candid and insightful, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of being a performer in today's world.ABOUT LILLY SNATCHDRAGON Lilly SnatchDragon is an international, award-winning political comedy drag queen, burlesque artist, and compere whose stage presence never fails to entertain. Her sharp, unapologetic approach to challenging how the West stereotypes South East Asian women earned her Best Newcomer at the London Cabaret Awards in 2015 - and she has remained a powerful force in the industry ever since. She has been in the Top 10 ‘UK’s Most Influential Burlesque Performers’ since 2015, including No. 1 in 2017, and currently is ranked 19th in the entire world. For the burlesque fans among us, you may also recognise Lilly from The Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender in Las Vegas in 2024, in which she won ‘small group category, alongside her partner, Mark Anthony. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lillysnatch ABOUT TIGZ RICE Hello gorgeous! I’m an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. I’m also the host of the podcast Finding My User Manual, a podcast about learning how to be human, when no one gave you the user manual. Website: https://www.tigzrice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/tigzrice Tigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available Worldwide PODCAST DISCLAIMER Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

Feel The Fear, Do It Anyway: Overcoming Overthinking with Travel Counsellor Vikki Wells

CONTENT WARNING This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing. Please read below for more detailed chapter descriptions and to make an informed decision on whether this episode is for you. If not, please take gentle care of yourself and I look forward to re-connecting with you next week. Specific subjects discussed include: Mental health, OCD, Anxiety, Motherhood, brief mention of Assault. If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links... UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/ Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help In this episode of Finding My User Manual, Tigz Rice chats with Vikki Wells, an independent travel counsellor and proud mum, about how overthinking has shaped her life, her journey from corporate security to entrepreneurial freedom, and embracing confidence at any age. Vikki shares personal stories and practical insights on overcoming fear, managing worry, and building a life that aligns with her true self. ABOUT VIKKI WELLS Vikki Wells is an Independent Travel Counsellor and the face behind Vacation with Vikki, where she helps busy families and hard-working professionals plan stress-free, memory-making holidays — without the overwhelm. Specialising in turning “we should really book that trip” into actual plane tickets, Vikki takes the chaos out of travel planning and transforms group chat dreams into beautifully curated and perfectly scheduled realities. Her approach blends practical expertise with genuine care, ensuring every detail is handled so her clients can focus on what really matters: making memories. A proud mum herself, Vikki understands the juggle of modern life - and the importance of carving out time to reconnect, reset, and explore. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a much-needed family escape, she’s passionate about creating travel experiences that feel effortless from start to finish.Website: https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/vikki.wells/ ABOUT TIGZ RICE Hello gorgeous! I’m an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. I’m also the host of the podcast Finding My User Manual, a podcast about learning how to be human, when no one gave you the user manual. Website: https://www.tigzrice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRiceTigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available Worldwide PODCAST DISCLAIMER Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

Logo Designer James Barnard on Creativity, People Pleasing & Building Legacy as a Creative

In this podcast episode, award-winning logo designer James Barnard shares his journey from London to Australia, his insights on branding, the power of content creation, showing up online when you don't feel confident in front of the camera, and how to build legacy within a sustainable design business. Discover practical tips on SEO, social media, client relationships, and leaving a meaningful legacy in the creative industry. CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to James Barnard 04:41 Navigating Life Without Drama 14:07 The Evolution of People-Pleasing 15:36 Do I need a Creative Niche? 18:30 Harnessing SEO for Brand Success 23:28 The Journey into Video Content Creation 29:03 The Importance of Being Visible 29:11 The Personal Touch in Freelancing 34:23 Creating Educational Content 40:08 Transitioning to Community Engagement 43:46 The Reality of Social Media Metrics 46:43 Finding Balance in Content Creation 50:01 Marketing as a Core Business Function 54:33 Defining Success Beyond Financials 59:27 Career Advice for New Graphic Designers ABOUT JAMES BARNARD James Barnard is an award-winning logo and visual identity designer, educator, and international speaker, as well as the founder of Barnard Design Co.. Passionate about creating logos with meaning, his portfolio spans everything from restaurants and events to retailers, local authorities, small businesses and agencies - reflecting both creative range and strategic thinking. With over 15 years in the design industry, his background includes roles at The Daily Telegraph, Bauer Media, and Hearst Magazines in the UK. In 2021, he relocated from London to the Gold Coast, Australia, where he now runs his studio. Having built an online audience of over a million people, and spoken at multiple design conferences around the world — including Adobe MAX — he now dedicates significant time alongside his client work to passing on his exceptional knowledge, raising the standard, and supporting the next generation of designers. He is also the host of Designerrrs™, a global design community powered by Adobe Express. Website: https://www.designerrrs.com & https://barnard.co Instagram: https://instagram.com/barnardco/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@barnardco Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/barnardco LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrbarnard/ABOUT TIGZ RICE Hello gorgeous! I’m an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. I’m also the host of the podcast Finding My User Manual, a podcast about learning how to be human, when no one gave you the user manual.Website: https://www.tigzrice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tigzriceTigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available WorldwidePODCAST DISCLAIMERFinding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

Mental Health Awareness Week: A Conversation with Filmmaker and Storyteller Joy Brett

CONTENT WARNING This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing. Please read below for more detailed chapter descriptions and to make an informed decision on whether this episode is for you. If not, please take gentle care of yourself and I look forward to re-connecting with you next week. Specific subjects discussed include: Generalised conversation around Mental Health, Bipolar Disorder, Brain Fog and Depression. If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links... UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/ Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help ABOUT THE EPISODE In this inspiring interview, Joy Brett shares her journey as a filmmaker, storyteller, and mental health advocate. Perfectly timed for Mental Health Awareness Week, Joy discusses her creative process, the importance of authenticity, and how her experiences with mental health shape her work and life. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Joy Brett and Her Journey 03:11 The Empathic Connection: Understanding Emotions 05:53 The Role of Animals in Emotional Well-being 09:03 Navigating Social Connections and Anxiety 11:50 Mental Health Awareness 18:05 The Impact of Therapy on Personal Growth 23:58 Sharing Mental Health Stories Online 26:38 Navigating Neurodivergence and Human Connection 29:13 Understanding Brain Fog and Its Impact 32:36 Managing Memory and Organization Strategies 36:23 The Burden and Gift of Empathy 39:32 Redefining Success in the Creative Industry 42:45 Passion Projects and Personal Fulfillment 51:20 The Importance of Mental Health AwarenessABOUT JOY BRETTJoy Brett is a filmmaker, storyteller, and the founder of Eureka Creative - a media agency dedicated to helping brands and thought leaders show up, level up, and share their unique stories. An award-winning director, Joy was recognised with the Mike Newell Award for Directing at the Visions Film Festival 2023, as well as the Creative Entrepreneurship Award at the Flare Enterprise Awards 2024. She is passionate about opening up conversations often left out of entrepreneurship - speaking candidly about living with borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eureka_creative_ Youtube:   [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCCT3whPV9j_od6DHX-G0UrA]https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCT3whPV9j_od6DHXG0UrA Website: https://www.eurekacreative.co.ukABOUT TIGZ RICE Hello gorgeous! I’m an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. I’m also the host of the podcast Finding My User Manual, a podcast about learning how to be human, when no one gave you the user manual.Website: https://www.tigzrice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRiceTigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available WorldwidePODCAST DISCLAIMER Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.

Creativity And The Power of Rejection: How to Build Confidence and Resilience

Liz Mosley shares her journey of self-discovery, the importance of rejection, and how understanding your unique mental model can empower your creative and personal life. Discover practical tips on handling rejection, building confidence, and embracing authenticity.CHAPTERS00:00 The Journey of Rejection and Self-Worth 10:05 Building Connections and Creative Expression 19:58 The Power of Rejection in Business 30:05 Confidence and Personal Growth Through Rejection 33:01 Reflections on Parenting and Self-Discovery 36:25 The Pressure of Modern Parenting 39:39 Taking Responsibility for Our Reactions 42:22 Coping with Catastrophizing 45:42 Finding Calm in Chaos 47:13 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Acceptance 51:40 The Impact of Online Presence 55:14 Words of Wisdom on Kindness to SelfABOUT LIZ MOSLEY Liz Mosley is a branding designer, podcast host, public speaker, and content creator who has built a multi-faceted creative business rooted in confidence, visibility, and raw honesty. Helping independent business owners feel more confident in how they show up in the world - whether through beautifully crafted visual identities or practical, accessible insights they can implement themselves - her work is grounded in the belief that creativity isn’t about perfection. It’s in the showing up, the trying of new things, and learning as you go. As a vocal advocate for reframing rejection and failure, Liz encourages other creatives to see them not as things to avoid, but as essential parts of both the creative process and the human experience. Liz is passionate about representation within the creative industries. As a middle-aged woman and mum, she is intentionally visible in a space where she rarely saw people like herself growing up — and is now helping to redefine what a creative career can look like at every stage of life.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizmmosleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lizmmosleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-mosley/ABOUT TIGZ RICEHello gorgeous! I’m an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. I’m also the host of the podcast Finding My User Manual, a podcast about learning how to be human, when no one gave you the user manual.Website: https://www.tigzrice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzriceTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzriceFacebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRiceTigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available WorldwidePODCAST DISCLAIMERFinding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.